As a pioneer in mesh abdominoplasty for rectus diastasis, Dr. Gregory Dumanian is often asked about the technique and its success. Below, he has compiled the most frequently asked questions and their answers.
What is rectus diastasis?
Rectus diastasis, otherwise known as diastasis recti, is the separation of the rectus abdominis muscle. It is characterized by the widening of the linea alba, which is about the width of a small finger in the teenage years but can stretch to 10 cm across over time. In addition to the widening of the linea alba, Dr. Dumanian’s recent research shows that the rectus muscles themselves become one centimeter wider (over 1/4 inch) with each of the first two pregnancies carried by a woman. This also contributes to a lax abdominal wall.
Although rectus diastasis is often caused by pregnancy, especially multiple pregnancies or pregnancies involving high-birth-weight babies, it can also occur in men in their 50s and 60s with an excess of intraabdominal fat.
Why is rectus diastasis a problem?
Cosmetically, rectus diastasis is not ideal. The upper abdomen develops a noticeable bulge that cannot be reduced with diet or exercise. This bulging makes the breast contour less noticeable. Physically, the separation of the abdominal muscles can be uncomfortable and even painful to touch in the worst cases. And, it can also rob someone of their core strength, which leads to back pain and other problems. Rectus diastasis is also linked to epigastric and umbilical hernias.
What is the mesh abdominoplasty technique?
Mesh abdominoplasty is a technique pioneered by Dr. Dumanian that entails reinforcing the abdominal wall with permanent mesh. He typically uses it in cases of severe rectus diastasis, where there is a separation of more than 6 cm.
Can the mesh become infected?
Infection is always a risk but it is less common with an experienced surgeon like Dr. Dumanian. He has a very low mesh removal rate.
What are the advantages of the mesh abdominoplasty technique?
The mesh abdominoplasty technique is superior to other techniques because it:
- enforces the entire linea alba instead of patching a hole
- distributes the forces with the mesh to reduce the chance for suture pull-through and recurrence of the bulging
- helps ensure primary healing through attention to detail for skin blood flow
Is the procedure successful?
Yes. A few years ago, Dr. Dumanian published a paper on a study he conducted reviewing the safety and success of mesh abdominoplasty for rectus diastasis in a group of his patients. He found that after more than a year of follow-up, none of the patients experienced a recurrence of a bulge or hernia. Complications were very rare and cosmetic results were excellent.
Where can I learn more about mesh abdominoplasty for rectus diastasis?
You can learn more about mesh abdominoplasty for rectus diastasis by reading Dr. Dumanian’s paper or watching the video below.
Contact Dr. Dumanian
If you are experiencing symptoms of rectus diastasis and would like to explore your treatment options with Dr. Dumanian, please call (312) 695-6022 or email our practice today.